Messi Returns, But Argentina Settles for 1-1 Draw Against Venezuela in Rain-Soaked Qualifier"*

MATURIN, Oct 11 — Argentina and Venezuela played to a 1-1 draw in South America's World Cup qualifiers yesterday, marking Lionel Messi's return to international play.

The 37-year-old captain, fully recovered from an injury sustained in the Copa America final, made an impressive contribution by assisting Nicolás Otamendi for the opening goal just 13 minutes into the match, which was delayed by heavy rain.

Argentina's goalkeeper, Geronimo Rulli, stepping in for the suspended Emiliano 'Dibu' Martinez, made key saves to deny Venezuela's Salomon Rondon in the first half.

However, Rondon equalized in the second half with a brilliant header from a cross by Yeferson Soteldo, moving Venezuela temporarily to sixth place in the standings.

Argentina, in search of a late winner, brought on Leandro Paredes and Lautaro Martinez five minutes before the end, but struggled on the drenched pitch. 

"It was an ugly match. We couldn't string together two passes because the ball kept stopping in the water," Messi said post-match. Defender Rodrigo De Paul echoed this sentiment, stressing the need for better playing conditions.

Despite the draw, Argentina remains at the top of the standings with 19 points and will face Bolivia on Tuesday, while Venezuela prepares to visit Paraguay.